Are you ready to elevate your pasta game to legendary status? Dive into the heart of Italian cuisine with Peter Clemenza's Spaghetti Sauce—a timeless recipe that promises to transform your dinner table into a feast worthy of a classic mob movie! With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you'll create a rich, savory sauce that envelops your spaghetti in a warm embrace of flavor. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your guests and savor every bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef to the pot. Break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula, ensuring it browns evenly.
- Cook the ground beef until it is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired, though some fat will add flavor to the sauce.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and create a smooth, consistent sauce.
- Add dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to cook slowly for
- 5 to 2 hours, which will help develop deep, rich flavors.
- Taste the sauce periodically and adjust seasonings as needed. The sauce should thicken and become more concentrated as it simmers.
- Once the sauce reaches desired consistency and flavor, remove from heat and serve over cooked spaghetti.
Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your sauce heavily relies on the quality of the ingredients. Opt for high-quality olive oil, fresh garlic, and ripe crushed tomatoes for the best results.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the sauce to simmer for the full
- 5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process is key to developing deep, rich flavors that will elevate your dish.
- Taste as You Go: Periodically taste your sauce while it simmers. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your preference, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, consider adding them toward the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Pair with the Right Pasta: While this sauce is perfect for spaghetti, it also works wonderfully with other pasta shapes. Choose your favorite to create a personalized dish.
- Make it Ahead: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. The flavors only get better over time!
- Serve with Love: Finally, remember that the best meals are made with love. Serve your spaghetti sauce with a side of warm bread and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a complete Italian experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
